As Penn State prepared to face Iowa in a Big Ten football game Saturday, thoughts around the athletic program included concern for cheerleader Paige Raque. She didn't make the trip to Iowa City, because Raque is recovering from a five-story fall on Oct. 13.

Raque, 19, remains in a coma with severe brain and pelvic injuries at Altoona Regional Health System. She fell through a screen and out the window of her off-campus apartment a week ago, landing on pavement below.

Investigators have said her horrific fall appears to have been an accident.

From cheerleaders to football players, student athletes showed up Thursday at the Penn State Rec Center to pray for Raque.

“We’re so grateful for the support and this is why Penn State is a big family because everyone takes care of each other,” said Erik Geffken, a cheerleader and friend of Raque.

Family members said they were encouraged how Raque responded to a drug to stimulate brain activity. Family spokesman Randy Jepson said Raque stirred and opened her eyes a few times Thursday, though she remains still in a coma.

“With brain injuries, the doctors said there are signs of improvements and periods of rest,” Jepson told CenterDaily.com. “We need to be optimistic, because this really is a day-by-day thing.”

“When people ask what Paige is like, the easiest thing to say is that she is the light of the room,” said Lauren Chapman, a fellow cheerleader.

Parker Raque, 21, is Paige's brother and captain of Penn State gymnastics team.

Earlier in the week, football coach Bill O'Brien made contact with the Raque family to express his support.

"My heart goes out to Paige and her family, and I feel terrible about that," the coach said at his weekly press conference. "When I get back over there I'll make some calls and make sure that their family understands. I know her brother is a great gymnast here, and it's a terrible thing. Like I said, my heart goes out to that family."

Players also have made public their support in Raque's fight for life.

"Just said my prayers of course had to pray for Paige," senior cornerback Stephon Morris posted to his personal Twitter.